As the Buffalo Bills approach the 2026 NFL offseason, the looming free agency of star running back James Cook has sparked intense speculation about the team’s future at the position. With training camp just days away, it’s increasingly evident that Cook will play out the final year of his contract without an extension, raising concerns about a potential holdout or his departure next year. While second-year back Ray Davis shows promise, the Bills are likely to seek additional depth and a potential starter in the 2026 NFL Draft to bolster their backfield.
In a recent three-round 2026 NFL mock draft by Pro Football Sports Network’s Owain Jones, the Bills address this need by selecting Penn State Nittany Lions running back Kaytron Allen with the No. 62 overall pick in the second round. At 5-foot-11 and 223 pounds, Allen brings a physical, bruising style that could serve as an exciting upgrade over Cook, offering a new dimension to Buffalo’s already formidable offense.
Kaytron Allen: A Physical Force for Buffalo
Unlike James Cook, whose game relies on explosive speed and agility, Kaytron Allen is a power runner capable of wearing down defenses. His 2024 season at Penn State showcased his ability to dominate on the ground, as he racked up an impressive 1,108 yards and eight touchdowns while sharing carries with teammate Nick Singleton. Allen’s size and physicality make him a perfect fit for the Bills’ hard-nosed, smash-mouth offensive identity, particularly in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
Although Allen’s receiving numbers—18 receptions for 153 yards and two touchdowns in 2024—are less prolific than Cook’s, his ability to grind out tough yards could complement Buffalo’s passing attack led by Josh Allen. His physical running style would add a layer of toughness, making the Bills’ offense even more difficult to defend.
Why Allen Could Be an Upgrade
James Cook has been a dynamic playmaker for Buffalo, but his lighter frame and reliance on speed can sometimes limit his effectiveness in physically demanding situations. Allen, on the other hand, offers a more robust build and a punishing running style that could thrive in the AFC East’s tough, cold-weather games late in the season. His ability to consistently move the chains and wear down opponents could make him a valuable asset in Buffalo’s quest for a Super Bowl.
Moreover, Allen’s durability and workhorse mentality align well with the Bills’ long-term vision. While Ray Davis could develop into a starter, adding a talent like Allen ensures depth and competition in the backfield, reducing the risk of relying on a single unproven player. Allen’s college production suggests he can handle a significant workload, making him a potential three-down back with the right development.
A Perfect Fit for Buffalo’s Offense
The selection of Kaytron Allen in the second round would signal Buffalo’s commitment to maintaining a balanced and physical offensive attack. Pairing Allen with Josh Allen’s elite arm and the team’s talented receiving corps would create matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. While he may not replicate Cook’s explosiveness as a receiver, his ability to power through tackles and control the ground game could elevate the Bills’ offense to new heights.
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Kaytron Allen stands out as an exciting prospect who could seamlessly transition into a starring role for the Bills. If James Cook departs in free agency, Allen’s physicality and reliability make him a compelling candidate to lead Buffalo’s backfield into the future.